Red Panda
Ailuris fulgens fulgens (Duli)
Ailuris fulgens styani (Pabu and Pavitra)
Red pandas earned the name “panda” first before the giant panda was discovered. The giant panda was named after them because of all the similarities they have in common. Today scientists have learned that red pandas belong to their own unique family and, contrary to their common name, they are not pandas but belong to a unique group called Ailuridae. In this family, there are only two subspecies of red pandas (we have both at the Zoo) and they are very similar. Both subspecies can be found in bamboo forests in Asia, however, one subspecies is primarily found in China while the other is mainly found in India. Red pandas, like the name, are primarily red across their back with a darker underside and legs. Certain patterns like their ringed tail and their mask-like face pattern are some of the easier ways to recognize them. This coloration and pattern help the red pandas camouflage their environment which consists of reddish-brown moss and white lichen often found on the trees.
Click HERE for a Red Panda Activity Sheet!
Our Current Residents
Duli, Male – Born on July 5, 2011
Duli came from the Lincoln Children's Zoo in Lincoln, Nebraska to ZooMontana. Duli and many of his siblings are spread out across the country. Duli is currently in the secondary habitat behind Pabu and Pavitra since he is a bit older and slower and needs some more space to himself.
Pabu, Male- Born on June 18, 2020
Pabu was born at the Oregon Zoo located in Portland, Oregon and moved to ZooMontana with his mother Mei Mei in March of 2021. Since then, Mei Mei has been transferred to keep supporting the Red Panda Species Survival Plan (SSP), but her son has stayed and has made quite and name for himself here. Pabu has earned many names from his many fans including “The Prince of Pounce” and “Prince of Rascality”.
Pavitra, Female- Born June 1, 2023
Pavitra came from the San Diego Zoo located in San Diego, California as a partner for Pabu in 2024. Pavitra has a darker-colored face and a thicker coat than Pabu. Being the youngest panda in the habitat, she is often the more active panda. She can often be seen climbing the trees in her habitat or taking a nap on a branch. Pavitra is known for having a strong personality and likes things to go her way.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Carnivora
- Family: Ailuridae
- Genus: Ailurus
- Species: Ailurus fulgens fulgens/ Ailurus fulgens styani
Animal Facts
Herbivore: mainly eat bamboo (but have been documented eating meat)
Population Status: currently listed as Endangered
Habitat: bamboo forests
Activity: crepuscular- mostly active during dusk and dawn
